What a Deal! CT College Choices for Every Budget & Every Student

Did you know that there are over eighty colleges within the State of Connecticut? Students of all ages intent on advancing their studies can choose from a variety of academic offerings and campus settings to match every budget imaginable. We all know the quality and expense behind an Ivy League education at Yale or private liberal arts education at Wesleyan, Connecticut College, Trinity, or even Fairfield- $50,000 plus. Yet, families experiencing sticker shock from these elite schools can be comforted by two important points: 1) colleges compete for the best students and often discount these high price tags with financial and/or merit aid; and 2) our state universities and community colleges offer another choice… sound academic programs substantially lower in price. So don’t necessarily cross the elite private schools off your list if they’re not in line with your financial strategy. And, check out less expensive options found in your own backyard.

The crown jewel, rated the #1 Public University in New England by US News & World Report, University of Connecticut/Storrs (www.uconn.edu) offers over 100 areas of study for a price substantially less than private institutions ($21,000- tuition, meals, housing, fees). Students admitted to a UConn regional campus versus the main campus pay an annual tuition bill at even more of a bargain rate ($8,700- tuition and fees ) with the option to transfer usually after two years to the main campus after meeting general electives and GPA requirements. And, you can’t beat our respected state university system with four strong choices including Western Connecticut State University (www.wcsu.edu) with tuition, housing and fees set at $10,000. The best deal overall: local community colleges which in some cases are priced at 60% lower than four year colleges. Norwalk Community College (www.ncc.edu) for example, will cost you just $3,406 for tuition and fees for the 2010-2011 year. And, through the Guaranteed Admissions Program (GAP), students enrolled at a community college like Norwalk “are guaranteed admission to the University of Connecticut once the associate degree has been earned and an overall average of 3.0 achieved”. Are you a student at or graduate of any of these Connecticut schools? We want to hear your impressions related to investment value.

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“You listened, customized your responses to meet my needs and checked in with me to make sure that you understood what I was saying and that I understood what you were suggesting. You made a chore and fear of the unknown into something positive.”

“The absolute best thing about Debbie Davis was that she kept me organized and on track with my college forms, essays and applications. I was on top of my college work at all times. My essays were completed months before their deadline. She saved me from any unnecessary stress in my senior year. Thank you, Mrs. Davis- my senior year has been amazing.”

“I am truly grateful for your genuine commitment and enthusiasm working with me and all of your clients. It is amazing seeing that everything we worked so hard on together finally paid off. And I am forever thankful for the bond we share 🙂 other than my parents, you were my biggest supporter and really made me understand the value of my achievements as a student and a person.

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for all of your invaluable assistance over the past four years. It seems like …

“There are questions that come up every day, (it seems), and it calms me to know you are always there for me. Your support of the boys runs deep- your positive and fun attitude- your cards- your expertise- and now your true interest in their future. I am grateful for all you do for us.”

“I truly felt that you treated my daughter as your own child, ascertaining every step of the way what the right course of action would be for her and where she would be happiest. Something that at first seemed daunting gradually unfolded into a fun adventure. We are left with wonderful memories and a very exciting future.”

“We cannot thank you enough for guiding our child and us through one of the most important exercises in her life, and teaching her the importance of preparation. Many thanks also for your warm personal focus and outstanding professionalism.”

“You are truly the best and most supportive career and college mentor out there. Every single involvement with our kids is the most positive and supportive possible- you help me be a better parent.”

“Debbie has been a tremendous help throughout my search for employment. She advises on all aspects of the job search process from cover letter, to resume, to interviewing skills to correspondence etiquette. She stresses the importance of organization, positive attitude and endless commitment. Debbie is a great mentor and I am extremely appreciative of everything she has done to help me with my job search.”

“Our experience with Debbie Davis was one of total satisfaction. She spent hours explaining to us every facet of the college search. Her attention to detail, her positive and enthusiastic personality, and her accurate knowledge of her business is impressive.”

“Thank you for the beautiful, encouraging note you sent. I don’t know if you do that kind of thing for all of your students, but it is an outstanding touch and I applaud your style!”

“I hope your ears have been ringing as I sing your praises! You have been so helpful and encouraging throughout our daughter’s college search and decision making process. Thank you for helping to make it as stress free as it could have been. Your advice at critical junctures along the way made a big difference.”

“With the help of Debbie Davis, I was able to narrow down a college list that included schools I hadn’t thought of applying to before, draft sincere college essays that were representative of my life experiences and plans, and, ultimately, get into my dream school. I am happier than ever with my college choice, and that is all thanks to Debbie Davis. Thank you, Debbie, for changing my life!”

“Your support of the boys runs deep- your positive and fun attitude, your cards, your expertise- and now your true interest in their future. I am grateful for all you do for us.”

“Your expertise, diligent support, consistent follow-through, and careful attention to our son’s individual profile, style, strengths, and needs were pivotal to keeping progress on track. I am very confident in his bright future and want you to know that you have our gratitude for your part in supporting his success.”

“Hey Ms. Davis, I got into college with a Presidential Scholarship last night! I hear about the Honors program and the 5 year MBA in March. Thanks so much for everything you did for me. I really appreciate it.”

“We worked with Debbie to guide us through the college review, selection and application process for our son. We could not have been happier. She established and kept us on a proactive and tight timeline resulting in completion of the process well in advance, relieving us of most of the turmoil, anxiety and stress associated with launching a child into college. She is now guiding our second through the journey.”

“Our son really respects and values your opinions, and you have been so good about empowering him and making the final decision his own. He is thrilled about his offer which he accepted yesterday; his top choice. I want you to know how grateful we are to you. You have been a crucial part of our boys’ lives.”

“You are such a cheery and positive spirit–just what we needed! You have made all of my kids recognize their potential and believe in it themselves! What a gift you are. Thanks for all the encouragement and guidance. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.”

“I have to tell you, working with you has been so inspiring. I’m transitioning back into the working world (I am interviewing now) and watching your energy and how you run your business makes me so excited to jump back in. Thanks again for all of your compassion with the kids, your enthusiasm, and expertise.”

“Thank you for all you do for our family. Your support, professionalism, positive attitude and many, many hours of work have helped us all so much. Your efforts will continue to make such a difference in our lives for a long, long time.”